Casualties unknown

1997-09-13: Bellanca 7GCBC (N5272X) — Crimora, VA

Crimora, VA, US

On September 13, 1997, a Bellanca 7GCBC (registration N5272X) was involved in an aviation accident near Crimora, VA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's mismangement of fuel which resulted in fuel exhaustion. Contributing was his inadequate preflight planning that resulted in an inadequate fuel supply.. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A student pilot reported three-quarters fuel before a cross-country flight, but the engine lost power after 45 minutes. The airplane struck a power pole during an off-field landing attempt. FAA found 3 gallons of fuel remaining in the 39-gallon capacity airplane.

Accident Details

A student pilot conducting a cross-country flight reported that the engine lost power approximately 45 minutes after departure. During the forced landing, the pilot overshot the intended landing area and the airplane struck a power pole.

Aircraft and Fuel Information

The airplane's total fuel capacity was 39 gallons, with 1 gallon considered unusable. After the accident, FAA inspectors examined the aircraft and found 3 gallons of fuel remaining in the tanks.

Pilot Information

The student pilot had accumulated a total flight time of 13.8 hours, including 4.5 hours as pilot-in-command. Prior to departure, the pilot reported checking the fuel tanks and determining they were three-quarters full.

Post-Accident Findings

No analysis or probable cause was provided in the source material. The FAA examination confirmed the presence of 3 gallons of fuel. No injuries or fatalities were mentioned.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X08913. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.